NCLH-Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings orders 8 new ships from Fincantieri

   April 9, 2024 ,   Cruise Industry

NCLH-Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has announced the commissioning of 8 vessels across its 3 brands, slated for delivery between 2026 and 2036. The Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri will oversee the construction of all these vessels.

Additionally, NCLH plans to construct a dual-ship pier at its private Bahamian island Great Stirrup Cay.

After the delivery of four Prima Plus ships from 2025 to 2028, NCLH's subsidiary NCL/Norwegian Cruise Line is projected to receive 4 ships of ~200,000 GT-tons/volume each (capacity ~5000 pax) in 2030, 2032, 2034, and 2036.

NCLH's subsidiary Oceania Cruises is expected to take delivery of its final Allura-class ship in 2025. Subsequently, Oceania will receive two units of ~86,000 gross tons each, with a capacity of 1450 guests, in 2027 and 2029.

To ensure availability at shipyards, NCLH anticipates that the 4-ship NCL order will replace a prior 2-ship order for Oceania.

NCLH's subsidiary RSSC/Regent Seven Seas Cruises will receive 2 ships of 77,000 GT each, accommodating 850 guests, in 2026 and 2029.

Further details about these new ship classes will be disclosed in the upcoming months, as per NCLH.

Harry Sommer (NCLH's CEO) emphasized that these ship orders mark a steady introduction of state-of-the-art vessels into their fleet, reinforcing long-term growth prospects. It underscores the commitment to innovation and enhancing guest experiences while striving for fleet efficiency and decarbonization.

The order prices for the ships were not disclosed. However, NCLH mentioned obtaining export credit financing to cover 80% of the contract price for each of the two Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships, subject to specific conditions. Financing for the Norwegian Cruise Line ships is currently underway.

The new dual-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay aims to bolster the company's capacity in the Caribbean. Construction is set to commence in the summer, with completion anticipated by late 2025. The project represents an investment of US$150 million, according to NCLH.